Warm light spilling through bright, floor-to-ceiling windows into a cold, stormy Saturday night on The Parade is the kind of restaurant invitation I simply can’t resist.
With the rain coming down outside and Norwood looking a little moodier than usual, we found ourselves welcoming that invite, stepping into one of the strip’s newest dining spots, SOMMA, and instantly left the miserable weather behind.
SOMMA opened at the end of 2025, bringing a new type of dining experience to the eastern suburbs, one that feels like a slice of Greece has been bottled up and brought to life
From the moment we stepped through the doors, that Greek essence made the gloomy weather outside feel a world away. The restaurant, filled with bright white textured walls, soft furnishings and warm lighting, was buzzing at 8pm on Saturday night.
As my partner and I stepped through the doors, we were quickly met by a friendly staff member who swiftly took us to our table, tucked just behind the entrance, secluded enough for an intimate dining experience, but a great spot to feel immersed in the restaurant.
He gave us a rundown of the menu, highlighted what was most popular and let us know all of his favourites. As for drinks, we left the decision in his hands, and we were more than impressed when four completely different cocktails showed up at our table.
The mojito was my favourite, fresh and fun with a passionfruit twist. And if you’re like me and order a spicy marg anytime it’s on the menu, SOMMA’s had the perfect balance of a classic margarita with a hint of spice. Finally, if you’re an espresso martini lover (also just like me), then the Freddo espresso martini is a must-try.
As for food, we started with the Cypriot halloumi, which was grilled with olive oil, oregano and lemon. We also tried the fritti of local calamari, which came with a buttermilk Greek yoghurt and lemon. We loved both.
We followed this with the tirokafteri dip, made with feta, sweet chilli and red peppers, and served with some of the most delicious pita we’ve ever had. It was soft and salty, and we couldn’t stop at just one plate.
Then it was time for mains. If there’s a steak on the menu, it’s rare for us not to order it. SOMMA’s 180-day grain-fed porterhouse steak came perfectly medium-rare and drizzled with a feta cream sauce and some potatoes worth bragging about. We also tried their chicken souvlaki skewers, which were served with chips, tzatziki, lemon and some more of that delicious warm pita.
Our waiter also brought us out two salads, one of which he says was his favourite thing on the entire menu. The Greek salad was fresh and light, with tomato, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, oregano and capers, and the staff favourite Cypriot salad with quinoa, cashews, lentils, sultanas, onion, parsley, pepitas, pomegranate and yoghurt did not disappoint. These were the perfect accompaniments to the more carb and meat-heavy meals.
Despite being incredibly full, there’s always room for dessert, and when offered a tiramisu, it would be rude to say no. The tiramisu was my highlight of the night. It was sweet and sticky and the most indulgent way to end a meal.
Owned by twin brothers Sotiri and Savvas Vassiliou, the duo behind North Adelaide’s Ammos and its underground ouzo bar, Mitilini, SOMMA stands on its own. The food really does speak for itself, and the venue is casual but elevated, making it a great location to catch up with friends, family or even for date night, just like we did.
From the warm, welcoming atmosphere to the generous plates and cocktails worth coming back for, SOMMA makes a pretty convincing case for a night out on The Parade. Whether you’re after a casual dinner with friends, a family catch-up or somewhere a little special for date night, this Greek-inspired spot is well worth adding to your Adelaide dining list.
SOMMA
Where: 125a The Parade, Norwood SA 5067
For more information, click here.
